Search Results (118)

The aging of China’s population has created significant challenges for the mental health of older adults. However, limited research has examined how public sports facility availability in living communities supports older adults’ mental health. To explore this association, data were extracted from the 2016 China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey, which involved 7811 respondents. The ordinary least squares model and the instrumental variable approach were employed to test the association between public sports facility availability in Chinese older adults’ living communities and their mental health. The bootstrapping method was used to estimate the mediating effect of physical activity and life satisfaction. The results indicate that public sports facility availability in living communities was significantly correlated with a decrease in depressive symptoms among older people (coefficient = −0.225; p < 0.01), which suggests that a greater availability of public sports facilities in living communities is related to the better mental health of older adults. The results of the mediation analysis show that physical activity and life satisfaction were identified as mediating mechanisms. This study suggests that increasing the availability of public sports facilities in older adults’ living communities can alleviate depression and promote better mental health. Our findings provide valuable policy implications for enhancing public sports infrastructure and promoting healthy aging. Full article

Background/Objectives: A large percentage of schoolchildren are children with overweight or obese, and weight gain over time increases the risk of poor health later in life. Motor coordination may be a protective factor, enabling young people to participate in healthy physical activities. However, it is unknown when the relationship between motor coordination and weight first emerges, nor whether it is evident across the body mass index (BMI) spectrum. The aim of this study was to explore what happens with coordination skills [i.e., locomotor coordination (LC), visuomotor coordination (VC), foot object control coordination (FOCC), hand object control coordination (HOCC), global motor coordination (GMC)] applying the 3JS battery, according to age (6 to 11 years) and BMI (normal weight, overweight or obesity) in a sample of 688 Primary Education participants (8.71 ± 1.66 years; 48.8% boys) from Galicia (Spain). Methods: To analyze the differences in the variables of the 3JS battery between age (6–11 years) and BMI (normal weight vs. overweight vs. obesity), they were evaluated using a multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA), introducing the sex category (boy-girl) as a covariate to avoid possible confounding factors. Results: After the application of the 3JS Battery, statistically significant differences were observed depending on age [LC (p < 0.001); VC (p < 0.001); FOCC (p < 0.001); HOCC (p < 0.001); GMC (p < 0.001)] and BMI [LC (p < 0.001); VC (p = 0.008); HOCC (p < 0.001); GMC (p < 0.001)]. No statistically significant differences were found in the interactions between age and BMI (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Locomotor coordination increases progressively with age, both globally and in each of the manifestations, and this is greater the older the schoolchildren are. Schoolchildren with normal weight compared to schoolchildren with overweight or obesity have better global motor coordination, locomotor coordination, global control of objects, and control with the hand. Full article

Background/Objectives: Sarcopenia and frailty are interrelated conditions and have a high incidence in older adults. They contribute to increased morbidity and mortality and poor quality of life. There is emerging evidence that healthy diets such as the Mediterranean diet could delay the onset of sarcopenia and frailty. This review aims to evaluate the role of the MD in preventing these conditions. Methods: A literature search was conducted on PubMed (MEDLINE, NCBI) for English-language articles published within the last 10 years (2014–2024) using the search terms “Mediterranean diet”, “frailty”, “sarcopenia”, and “old people”. A total of 111 articles were identified, of which 36 were excluded during the initial screening. Subsequently, 75 manuscripts were assessed for eligibility. Subsequently, a further 62 articles were excluded (narrative reviews, articles not focused on the elderly population, or articles with different outcomes). Finally, 13 articles were included in the review. Results: The 13 selected studies comprised seven observational studies, three systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and three clinical trials. The findings suggest that adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD), particularly when combined with physical activity, may improve body composition and cardiometabolic health and reduce indicators of sarcopenia in obese older adults. Furthermore, MD-based nutritional interventions were associated with improved physical functions such as balance, gait, fall risk, flexibility, and muscle strength (p < 0.05, all). The MD also demonstrated a preventive effect against frailty, particularly in pre-frail individuals. Conclusions: High adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) may delay the onset of sarcopenia and improve muscle function in older adults. However, the available scientific evidence is of low to moderate quality. Well-designed prospective intervention studies are needed to confirm whether the MD can modify the natural history of sarcopenia and/or frailty in older adults. Full article

The purposes of this study were to determine whether perceived food insecurity significantly influences food purchasing behaviors, food preparation practices, and life satisfaction; and to verify the moderating effect of generation in South Korea. Structural equation modeling and multi-group analyses were conducted to confirm the research model and test the hypotheses. Perceived food insecurity positively influenced food purchasing behaviors and food preparation practices. In addition, this study verified the presence of a significant negative relationship between perceived food insecurity and life satisfaction. Notably, a greater awareness of food insecurity in Generation M increased food preparation practices, and the negative impact of perceived food insecurity on life satisfaction was more strongly exhibited in the older generation than in the younger generation. This presents a need to pay greater attention to food insecurity issues at the government level and accelerate related future research. Specifically, it will be necessary to establish a structured educational environment and support services for systematic food security education. Also, rather than educating people with high levels of perceived food insecurity about why they should eat healthy food, proactive efforts should first be made to remove barriers to healthy eating habits. As a preventive measure against the worsening of food insecurity, more solutions should be prepared from a macroscopic perspective in addition to implications from the microscopic perspective mentioned so far. Full article

The global aging trend increases chronic diseases and lowers quality of life. Exercise is vital for physiological, cognitive, and mental health, countering age-related decline. Outdoor multidomain interventions enhance adherence, motivation, and resilience, supporting independence and well-being. Objectives: This paper aimed to apply an outdoor exercise protocol for middle-aged and older people and to study its preliminary effects on cognitive state, body composition, cardiovascular health, physical fitness, physiological function, physical activity, frailty, incidence of sarcopenia, and satisfaction with life. Methods: This protocol describes an eighteen-week, two-pronged, parallel, single-blind randomized controlled trial. This paper complies with the Consort and SPIRIT guidelines. A cohort comprising a minimum of fifty-two older adults from the University for Seniors program will be equally allocated to a multidomain training group (TG) and a passive control group (CG). Intervention: The TG will follow a multidomain outdoor intervention twice a week for a complete duration of 18 weeks, with recommendations for additional autonomous cardiorespiratory training. The supervised sessions will be divided into a 10-min warm-up session focusing on activation and joint mobility, followed by 40 min of resistance training, cardiorespiratory training, and balance and coordination; and it concludes with a 10-min cool-down featuring flexibility, relaxation, and playful emotional intelligence tasks. Cognitive training will be integrated across different parts of the session. Conclusions: This preliminary study aims to explore the feasibility and potential effectiveness of outdoor multidomain training in improving the health of older adults. Importantly, by including late middle-aged adults from the age of 55, this study also aims to explore the potential of preventive strategies initiated before reaching old age. This reflects a broader conceptualization of healthy aging as a lifelong process, where early interventions may help mitigate decline and extend independence into later life. The partnership between health professionals and physical activity fosters independence for older adults, addressing the increasing burden on health services. Full article

Background: Physical activity (PA) plays a crucial role in improving the quality of life (QoL) in older people, particularly by enhancing their balance and movement coordination. Objective: This study aimed to assess the effects of sensorimotor training intervention in older adults. Methods: A total of 90 participants, divided into a Control Group (n = 44) and Experimental Group (n = 46) were involved in a 24-week sensorimotor training program. The physical capacities of the participants were assessed both before and after the intervention program. Strength and flexibility were measured using the “Rikli and Jones” protocol (1999), while agility and speed were assessed through “Timed-up-and-go” tests. Taking into account the participants’ gender, a descriptive analysis of the sample was conducted to describe the data using the mean and standard deviation. Student’s T test was performed to compare the differences between the groups according to the first and second data collection moments (before and after the intervention). Jamovi software (v. 2.5.2.0) was used to develop the statistical analysis, using a p-value of less than 0.05 to assess the statistical significance. Results: The Experimental Group showed significant improvements across all the analyzed variables following the intervention (p < 0.005), indicating substantial gains in physical capacities. In contrast, the Control Group in the “sitting and reaching” test did not show a significant difference between the groups highlighting the lack of improvement without intervention. According to the effect size of the sample, it was observed that the parameters “reach behind your back (right)” and “reach behind your back (left)” showed the highest effect size comparing the Control Group and Experimental Group (ES: 0.60, 0.71). Conclusions: The findings highlight the practical clinical impact of implementing tailored physical activity programs for older adults. Such interventions are critical for enhancing QoL, reducing the risk of falls, injuries, and chronic illnesses, and promoting overall health, independence, and well-being. Integrating sensorimotor training into the routine care for older people can support healthy aging and functional independence. Full article

Background: The global population is experiencing a demographic shift towards older ages, which has the potential to increase the prevalence of ageing-related diseases and associated healthcare costs. Promoting healthy ageing behaviours, such as physical and social activity, has been shown to reduce disability and frailty among older people and improve their life satisfaction. To this aim, several Healthy Ageing Centres have been established across nine municipalities in Bosnia and Herzegovina to support healthy ageing behaviours in older populations. This cross-sectional study hypothesises that participation in these centres will be associated with an increase in healthy behaviours. Methods: This exploratory study compares the behaviours of Healthy Ageing Centre members (n = 399) and non-members (n = 55) to assess if participation in Healthy Ageing Centres is associated with healthy ageing behaviours such as physical activity, social interactions, and life satisfaction. Results: Members at Healthy Ageing Centres had a higher life satisfaction, exercised for significantly longer, and engaged in social activities more frequently than non-members. No differences were found in diet, alcohol consumption or loneliness levels. Conclusions: The present study highlights the positive behaviours associated with attending Healthy Ageing Centres, suggesting that their establishment in ageing populations could be beneficial for supporting healthy ageing. Full article

Background: Age-related decline in musculoskeletal function is a significant concern, particularly in Western countries facing demographic shifts and increased healthcare demands. This review examines the typical trajectories of musculoskeletal deterioration with age and evaluates the effectiveness of various interventions in preventing or reversing these changes. Methods: The review analyzes documented rates of decline across multiple parameters, including muscle mass, Type II muscle fiber reduction, and decreased motor unit firing rates. It examines evidence from studies on targeted interventions aimed at reversing these trends or preventing further decline. Results: The evidence suggests that multimodal interventions, including strength training can effectively maintain or improve physical function in aging adults. These interventions have shown potential in altering the trajectory of age-related decline in musculoskeletal function. Conclusions. The findings of this review have important implications for healthcare providers and policymakers in addressing the challenges of an aging population. By providing a framework for understanding and addressing age-related physical decline through evidence-based interventions, this review offers potential strategies for reducing healthcare costs and improving the quality of life for older adults. Full article

Background: The World Health Organization estimates that currently available vaccines prevent 2 to 3 million deaths worldwide each year. Preventing infectious diseases is an important public health priority to ensure healthy ageing and improve quality of life. This study’s aim is to identify the best strategies to increase vaccination coverage in the elderly. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were carried out, including a bibliographic search in the PubMed and Scopus databases. Studies in older people (60 years or older) on any type of intervention aimed at increasing vaccination coverage were included. The effect of the intervention was measured using the odds ratio (OR). Results: After applying the selection criteria, 20 studies were identified: 17 on influenza vaccines and 3 on other vaccines. Educational strategies obtained an OR = 1.63 (95% CI: 1.22–2.19, $I^2$ = 0.59). Medical counselling obtained an OR = 3.13 (95% CI: 0.60–16.37, $I^2$ = 0.95). Writing strategies obtained an OR = 1.14 (95% CI: 0.99–1.32, $I^2$ = 0.93). Few studies reported the effect of free vaccination. Conclusions: The educational strategies proved to be more effective than the others in this study. Free vaccination and age may have important roles. Further studies are needed as research in this area remains limited. Full article

This research provides a comprehensive view of the geolocation of physical health assets in the city of Tarragona (Spain) and how these assets are used and recommended by healthcare professionals to promote healthy lifestyles. Focusing on the distribution and accessibility of sports facilities, such as outdoor gyms or football and basketball courts, this study highlights the importance of these assets in leading a healthy life and preventing chronic diseases. This article investigates the availability of these assets and their prescription by healthcare professionals to improve people’s quality of life through surveys and fieldwork. It evaluates both the knowledge healthcare professionals have about these available assets in the area and the types of physical activity they prescribe. The results show significant variability in the availability of physical health assets across different neighbourhoods. However, most residents have good walking access to these assets, especially in the central and western parts of the city. This study concludes that while physical health assets are an underutilised resource for healthcare professionals, enhancing the awareness and prescription of these assets could improve public health outcomes, particularly for older adults. Full article

Background/Objectives: As people age, their environment plays a critical role in shaping their health. With Thailand’s rapidly aging population, it is crucial to understand how different living environments affect the well-being of older adults. This study examines differences in biopsychosocial health indicators between older adults living in village communities and private housing estates in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using baseline data from the Community-Integrated Intermediary Care (CIIC) Service Model, a Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial in Thailand (TCTR20190412004). The study included 2788 older adults (aged 60+). Of these, 89.49% resided in village communities, and 10.51% in private housing estates. Validated instruments were used to assess health indicators. Descriptive statistics, multivariate analysis of variance, and multiple logistic regression analyses were performed. Results: Older adults in private housing estates had significantly lower odds of experiencing pain or discomfort (Adj OR: 0.64, 95% CI: 0.49–0.84) and were 1.36 times more likely to report positive perceived health. However, they had lower odds of perceiving themselves as physically and socially active (Adj OR: 0.74, 95% CI: 0.57–0.97) and were 0.30 times less likely to rate their quality of life higher (Adj OR: 0.30, 95% CI: 0.22–0.40) compared to their village community counterparts. Conclusions: The residential environment significantly influences older adults’ health and well-being. Tailored health promotion interventions should leverage the unique strengths of both village communities and private housing estates to enhance social connections, physical activity, and quality of life, promoting healthy, active aging across diverse settings. Full article

The immune system is inexperienced before birth and tends to be tolerogenic, rather than immunogenic. After birth, the adaptive immune system develops while facing microbial challenges, but it can become impaired as old age progresses and persistent inflammation can lead to chronic morbidity, disability and frailty. To investigate the potential contributions of lymphocyte subsets to immunity from birth until old age, we enumerated circulating innate and conventional lymphocytes and measured serum cytokine levels in 10 cord blood samples and in peripheral blood from 10 healthy term neonates, 23 healthy school-age children, 25 young adults and 11 older subjects. Flow cytometric analysis revealed that B cell frequencies increase during childhood and gradually decrease into adulthood, whereas natural killer cell frequencies increase throughout life. T cell frequencies remained relatively constant throughout life, as did their expression of CD4 and CD8. However, all four innate T cell populations studied—invariant natural killer T cells, mucosa-associated invariant T cells and the Vδ1 and the Vδ2 subsets of γδ T cells—were extremely rare in cord blood and in peripheral blood of neonates, but they expanded after birth reaching highest levels in adulthood. Analysis of serum cytokine levels revealed that proinflammatory and T helper type 1 (Th1) cytokine levels increase in adulthood, whereas Th2 and Th17 cytokine levels remain relatively constant. These changes in lymphocyte numbers and cytokine levels across the lifetime are likely to affect immunocompetence, leaving newborn and elderly people susceptible to infection, cancer and immune-mediated disease. Full article

As both the proportion of older people and the length of life increases globally, a rise in age-related degenerative diseases, disability, and prolonged dependency is projected. However, more sophisticated biomedical materials, as well as an improved understanding of human disease, is forecast to revolutionize the diagnosis and treatment of conditions ranging from osteoarthritis to Alzheimer’s disease as well as impact disease prevention. Another, albeit quieter, revolution is also taking place within society: human augmentation. In this context, humans seek to improve themselves, metamorphosing through self-discipline or more recently, through use of emerging medical technologies, with the goal of transcending aging and mortality. In this review, and in the pursuit of improved medical care following aging, disease, disability, or injury, we first highlight cutting-edge and emerging materials-based neuroprosthetic technologies designed to restore limb or organ function. We highlight the potential for these technologies to be utilized to augment human performance beyond the range of natural performance. We discuss and explore the growing social movement of human augmentation and the idea that it is possible and desirable to use emerging technologies to push the boundaries of what it means to be a healthy human into the realm of superhuman performance and intelligence. This potential future capability is contrasted with limitations in the right-to-repair legislation, which may create challenges for patients. Now is the time for continued discussion of the ethical strategies for research, implementation, and long-term device sustainability or repair. Full article

Metabolic syndrome increases the risk of developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The regular practice of physical activity is a crucial factor for healthy aging and for controlling and preventing chronic diseases. To assess the effects of regular physical activity on the biochemical and inflammatory profiles, as well as the quality of life of older adults diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. Participants (aged 55–70 years; living in the Balearic Islands, Spain) were divided into two groups (n = 50 each) according to the degree of physical activity measured by metabolic equivalents of task (METs). Anthropometric parameters, blood pressure, biochemical and hematological parameters, and inflammatory biomarkers were measured. Beck Depression Inventory and adherence to the Mediterranean diet questionnaires, as well as the Dietary Inflammatory Index, chair test, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and Rapid Assessment of Physical Activity, were also determined. The characterization of the patients was similar in both groups, showing a homogeneous sample. The group with the highest METs experienced a decrease in depression and an increase in the intensity of physical activity. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet and HRQoL physical dimensions increased in participants with the highest METs, also showing a decrease in glycemia and glycosylated hemoglobin values. Inflammatory biomarkers, including tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-6, interleukin-1β, and osteoprotegerin, decreased in patients practicing more physical activity. High levels of physical activity are related to a healthier lifestyle, characterized by high adherence to the Mediterranean diet, decreased depressive behavior, oxidative stress, and inflammatory status in older people with metabolic syndrome. Full article

(1) Background: Healthy aging is the process of developing and maintaining functional capacity and optimizing involvement in order to improve one’s quality of life as people age. This study aimed to encourage healthy aging in people with cognitive impairment, as well as a control group, via the use of the Nintendo Switch combined with occupational therapy sessions, aiming to improve gross and fine motor skills, functionality, quality of life, and cognitive status. (2) Methods: A randomized clinical trial was undertaken. The sample was randomized using the OxMar software program Attribution 4.0 International, facilitating the division into a control group (CG), who received conventional occupational therapy sessions, and an experimental group (EG), who received therapy incorporating the Nintendo Switch, in addition to conventional occupational therapy sessions. The intervention period with the Nintendo Switch lasted for 8 weeks. (3) Results: Thirty-two participants were included in the study. Significant differences were found in the vast majority of the variables analyzed, which shows an improvement following the intervention; these improvements were mainly observed in measures of skill and the perception of quality of life. (4) Conclusions: An eight-week intervention with the Nintendo Switch alongside conventional occupational therapy helps to maintain cognitive status and functional independence. Following 8 weeks of intervention with the Nintendo Switch, improvements in gross motor dexterity, fine motor dexterity, and quality of life were observed in older people with cognitive impairment. Full article